Fruit-bearing Cacti
Common Prickly Pear
Scientific name Opuntia ficus-indica
Origin Central America spread to the Mediterranean
Plant structure stems transformed into fleshy pads leaves turned into spines
Fruits tasty shape oval round or elongated pulp color white yellow or red
Flowering starts in the third year blooms in summer
Soil light well-drained yellow soil preferred
Full sun
Watering low drought tolerant water during growing season
Propagation by pads rarely by seeds
Uses fruits for eating oil and cream for hair and skin
Purple Cactus Peruvian Apple Stricta
Scientific name Cereus repandus
Origin South America
Plant structure vertical height up to 10 meters
Fruits spineless color green turning purple size apple pulp rich in vitamins and minerals
Flowers large creamy color blooms one night in spring and summer
Soil light well-drained
Full sun
Watering low every two weeks in summer
Propagation by seeds or cuttings
Uses fruits for eating suitable for organic farming low sugar
Dragon Fruit Cactus
Scientific name Hylocereus undatus
Origin Central and South America
Plant structure climbing or creeping can reach 10 meters
Fruits skin pink purple or yellow pulp white or red small black seeds sweet and crunchy
Flowering nocturnal early summer
Soil fertile well-drained
Full sun or partial shade in hot areas
Watering regular during growing season less afterward
Propagation by cuttings or seeds
Uses eaten fresh in juices or salads rich in vitamins minerals and antioxidants
